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Description
Kniphofia Parviflora is a species of flowering plant that belongs to the family Asphodelaceae. It is native to South Africa and is commonly known as the small-flowered poker or red hot poker. The plant is a clump-forming perennial that produces tall flower spikes that are a bright yellow-orange color. The flowers appear in the late spring to early summer and are followed by seed pods.
Taxonomic Information
| Domain | Eukaryota |
| Kingdom | Plantae |
| Phylum | Tracheophyta |
| Class | Liliopsida |
| Order | Asparagales |
| Family | Asphodelaceae |
| Genus | Kniphofia |
Appearance
Kniphofia Parviflora typically grows to a height of 60-90cm and has a spread of around 30-60cm. The plant produces long, narrow, strap-like leaves that are a blue-green color. The flower spikes can reach up to 90cm in height and are densely packed with tubular flowers that are a bright yellow-orange color. The flowers gradually fade to a deep red color as they age, and the seed pods that follow are green and turn brown as they mature.
Care Guide
Water: Kniphofia Parviflora prefers to grow in moist soil and should be watered regularly. However, the soil should not be allowed to become waterlogged, as this can lead to root rot.Fertilization: The plant benefits from regular feeding during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.Soil: Kniphofia Parviflora prefers well-draining soil that is rich in organic matter.Sunlight: The plant thrives in full sun but can also tolerate partial shade.Hardiness Zones: Kniphofia Parviflora is hardy in USDA zones 7-10.
Common Pests & Diseases
Kniphofia Parviflora is generally not prone to serious pest or disease issues. However, it can be susceptible to root rot if the soil becomes waterlogged. Additionally, the plant may be affected by aphids or spider mites, which can be treated with insecticidal soap or neem oil.
Habitat
Kniphofia Parviflora is native to South Africa and is commonly found growing in open grassland areas. The plant prefers moist soil and can often be found growing near streams or other bodies of water.
Question and Answer
Q: Is Kniphofia Parviflora a drought-tolerant plant?
A: While the plant can tolerate some drought, it prefers to grow in moist soil and should be watered regularly.Q: Can Kniphofia Parviflora be grown in containers?
A: Yes, the plant can be grown in containers as long as the container is large enough to accommodate the root system.Q: Does Kniphofia Parviflora attract pollinators?
A: Yes, the plant’s bright flowers are attractive to bees, butterflies, and hummingbirds.Q: How often should Kniphofia Parviflora be fertilized?
A: The plant benefits from regular feeding during the growing season with a balanced fertilizer.
Related Plants
- Kniphofia Uvaria
- Kniphofia Caulescens
- Kniphofia Pinnata
- Kniphofia Rooperi
References
- The Royal Horticultural Society. (n.d.). Kniphofia parviflora. Retrieved from https://www.rhs.org.uk/Plants/14007/Kniphofia-parviflora/Details
- The Spruce. (2021). Growing Red Hot Pokers: Tips at a Glance. Retrieved from https://www.thespruce.com/growing-red-hot-poker-plants-1315933
- Gardenia. (n.d.). Kniphofia parviflora (Small-Flowered Poker). Retrieved from https://www.gardenia.net/plant/kniphofia-parviflora-small-flowered-poker
